The 7th Asia KLEMS Conference 2026 will focus on "Enhancing Regional Productivity and Competitiveness in Asia," bringing together experts, policymakers, and researchers to discuss strategies for strengthening regional economic performance. The conference will explore key drivers of economic competitiveness within the KLEMS framework with more oriented towards overcoming structural gaps in capital investment, labor market […]
The APO COE on IT for Industry 4.0, established in 2017, promotes the adoption of Industry 4.0, AI, and related digital technologies for productivity improvement through a range of capacity-building, research, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. In 2025, activities focused on developing the APO I4AI Framework, together with Need and Readiness Self-assessment (NRSA), Diagnostic Assessment Framework, training […]
Model factories with industrial infrastructure create unique ecosystems blending theory and practice for capacity building. Designed to train industry workers, especially SMEs, they enhance understanding of applications of productivity, lean manufacturing, digital transformation, and Industry 4.0 in real shopfloor settings. Since SMEs represent over 90% of industries in APO members, assessing model factories’ role in […]
Agriculture plays a vital role in ensuring food security and supporting economic development across APO member economies. However, the sector faces growing challenges from climate change, resource constraints, and increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining productivity. In response, net-zero circular agriculture has emerged as an effective approach to enhancing resource efficiency, reducing […]